Skaters shun metal rink (From Stroud News and Journal)

Skaters shun metal rink

SKATEBOARDER'S have slammed the surface of Stratford Park skateboard park after one youngster claimed that a skater had broken his arm and numerous skaters had suffered cuts and bruises on the metal surface.

Joe Ireland, 16, from Rodborough fears that more and more skaters will return to street skating and spend their time skating at venues such as the Subscription Rooms and Waitrose and could face possible prosecution by the police.

"We want to cut down on street skating but the surface at Stratford Park is so unsafe that we have returned to the streets," said Joe.

"The rink is fine for scooters and BMX riders but is not suitable for bladers or skateboarders.," he added.

The £25,000 skateboard rink was put in place three months ago having been funded by the Town council and the youth council, with the location being provided by city centre leisure in conjunction with the district council.

Sue Cresswick, clerk to the parish council, stressed that the metal surface would remain but the surrounding surface would be re-tarmaced shortly.

She said: "The metal surface is more durable we do understand that skateboarders prefer timber but the life expectancy is not as long as a metal surface and could be targeted for vandalism."

"We are however, currently getting quotes to surface the court with a smooth tight packed tarmac which will see the skateboard structure lifted from the court while resurfacing takes place."

She added: "We do stress that youngsters wear all the appropriate protective clothing when they skate."